Every year, Lebanon’s skies witness a breathtaking spectacle as thousands of migratory birds pass through on their journey between Europe and Africa. However, this arduous journey is not always safe, as many of these birds face the threat of illegal hunting, disrupting ecological balance and endangering certain species. To combat this issue, the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) is leading efforts through its Anti-Poaching Unit (APU), in collaboration with local and international partners, to protect these birds and ensure their safe passage.
Chadi Saad… A Watchful Eye Over Hima Hammana’s Skies
At the heart of these efforts is Chadi Saad, Director of the Migratory Bird Observatory in Hima Hammana, one of the key reserves managed by SPNL under the traditional Hima conservation approach. From his strategic vantage point, Chadi monitors bird movements, documents them through his lens, and directs field teams to track any violations that threaten these magnificent creatures.
“Watching migratory birds is a magical experience, but it also reminds us of our responsibility to protect them. Unregulated hunting poses a serious threat to these species and disrupts the ecosystem. That’s why we work tirelessly to combat it in collaboration with law enforcement and our local and international partners,” said Chadi.
A Collaborative Effort to Combat Poaching
With support from international partners such as the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), BirdLife International, and the Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS), SPNL’s Anti-Poaching Unit actively documents illegal activities, coordinates with authorities, and raises awareness among hunters and local communities about the importance of protecting migratory birds. These efforts have led to the rescue of many birds and stricter regulations against illegal hunting.
The Anti-Poaching Unit is working closely with the Internal Security Forces of the Ministry of Interior, the Lebanese Army under the Ministry of Defense, as well as forest rangers at the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Environment, federations of municipalities, municipal councils, and municipal police.
A Picture That Tells a Story
📸 The attached photo, captured by Chadi Saad, showcases an extraordinary moment of a migratory bird soaring over Hima Hammana. It is more than just a beautiful image—it stands as a testament to the success of conservation efforts and a reminder that Lebanon can be a safe haven for these birds.
Protecting Birds… A Responsibility We All Share
Everyone can contribute to this cause—whether by spreading awareness, reporting poaching incidents, or supporting conservation initiatives. Birds are not just part of nature; they are messengers of life and ecological balance, and protecting them is a duty we all share.
🔹 Together, let’s make Lebanon’s skies safer for migratory birds!
#BirdProtection 🦅 #StopPoaching #SPNL #HimaHammana #CABS #CMS #BirdLife #LebanonNature
